copperhead

copperhead /cop·per·head/ (-hed)

1. a venomous snake (a pit viper), Agkistrodon contortrix, of the United States, having a brown to copper-colored body with dark bands.

2. a very venomous elapid snake, Denisonia superba, of Australia, Tasmania, and the Solomon Islands.

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copperhead

[kop′ərhed′]

Etymology: L, cuprum + ME, hed

a poisonous pit viper (Agkistrodon contortrix) found mainly in the southeastern United States. The reddish brown, darkly banded snake is responsible for nearly 40% of the snakebites in the United States. Few bites are fatal. Pain, swelling, fang marks, and a bruise are usually present. Immediate treatment includes keeping the victim quiet and immobilizing the bite area at the level of the heart while seeking medical attention. Antivenin is available but is rarely indicated. See also coral snake, cottonmouth, rattlesnake.

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copperhead [kop´er-hed]

Agkistrodon contortrix, a venomous pit viper of the United States that has a brown to copper-colored body with dark bands. Called also highland moccasin. See also snakebite.